Students at Our Lady of the Angels Academy will kick off this year's observance of national Catholic Schools Week by participating in several service projects.

The lower elementary classes will be filling warm socks with treats for a local homeless shelter while the upper grades will be participating in the Sole Hope Project aiding people suffering from jigger infestations in Uganda.These events are part of the nationwide celebration of Catholic education during the week of Jan. 31 to Feb. 6.This year's theme is "Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service."Special eventsDuring the week, students will enjoy a luncheon with a special friend, as well as attending a school wide musical presentation featuring the area's local heritage, presented by Jay Smarr.Students will also make rosaries to be sent to veterans in local hospitals and pray for peace throughout the world.Sister John Marie from DeSales University will visit OLOAA and speak to the student body about her missionary work in Calcutta, India.Open houseOur Lady of the Angels Academy invites prospective students, their families and community residents to visit during an open house from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Visitors will have an opportunity to learn about programs for preschool to eighth grade.Kindergarten and new student registrations will be taken at this time.Beginning on Monday, opportunities to register will be taken between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Parents are asked to contact the school office if another time is needed so that a convenient time can be arranged.Financial aid is available for students.For more information, contact the school at 570-645-7170 or

altcola@ptd.net.